It’s okay to:
- Tell your practitioner that you have a history of medical trauma, and that you might need to go slow or may become emotional during the procedure.
- Think ahead about what might help you feel safer or more supported during the appointment.
- Ask your practitioner to explain exactly what they’re going to do—before they begin.
- Ask them to go slowly and explain what they’re doing as they go.
- If something feels off or you have a strong feeling that you don’t want to do something they recommend, ask if there are any other options available.
- Speak up if something doesn’t feel right by saying, “Could we just pause for a moment? Something doesn’t feel right.”
- Ask for what you need—your comfort and emotional safety matter.
Remember: You are allowed to take the time you need to give your full consent.
Your dentist, doctor, gynaecologist, and surgeon are there to support you. Yes, they are more knowledgeable than you in many areas, but you are allowed to ask questions and request that things be explained more clearly.
Love, Jen
